The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, which contains provisions to improve the nation’s approach to mental health care treatment. The bill, H.R. 2646, which was introduced by Reps. Tim Murphy, R-Pa., and Eddie Bernice Johnson, D-Texas, was reported out of committee on a unanimous vote.
“This legislation provides for comprehensive reform and improvements of our nation’s fragmented health care system,” said Susan H. McDaniel, PhD, president of the American Psychological Association (APA). “From lobbying on the Hill for this bill, I know that this legislation is long overdue and will bring much-needed help and assistance to children and adults with mental disorders, their families and the mental and behavioral health professionals who provide their care.”